Concordia University Admissions 2026: Requirements & Deadlines

Concordia University’s main intakes are in September (Fall) and January (Winter). The Fall intake offers the most programs and is the primary admission period. A smaller Winter intake is available for selected graduate and undergraduate courses, with a limited Summer intake for some programs.

Concordia University is globally recognized for its innovation, strong research focus, and student-centered teaching, ranking among the world’s top 500 universities (QS 2026). Home to over 50,000 students, including more than 9,600 international students, Concordia university offers a beautiful environment, multicultural community with peers from over 150 countries. 

The university is located in Montreal, North America’s top student city. The university offers a safe, culturally rich, and affordable environment with an exciting student lifestyle. 

Concordia provides over 40 programs with co-op and internship options, allowing students to gain practical experience while studying. With more than 120 research centres and institutes spanning fields such as AI, climate change, and smart technologies, the university fosters cutting-edge research. 

Its career-focused approach and strong industry connections have resulted in a 95% placement rate, with graduates securing employment within six months of completing their studies.

Key Highlights of The Concordia University:

Parameters	Details
Type	Public, non-sectarian, coeducational research university
QS ranking 2026	#465
Established	1974 (merger of Loyola College – 1896 and Sir George Williams University – 1926)
Campuses	Sir George Williams (downtown) and Loyola (Notre-Dame-de-Grâce), 7 km apart
Language	English
Enrollment	~49,900 students (2022–23)
Faculties / Schools	Arts & Science, Fine Arts, Gina Cody School of Engineering & Computer Science, John Molson School of Business, Graduate Studies

Now that you’re familiar with Concordia University, let’s take a look at the important dates and deadlines for each application. 

What Are the Eligibility Criteria for Concordia University Admissions?

When applying to Concordia University, international students must meet academic performance standards and program-specific requirements. For Indian applicants, document equivalence is also assessed to ensure compatibility with Canadian education standards.

What is the eligibility for undergraduate programs? 

To secure admission into an undergraduate program at Concordia, applicants must demonstrate strong secondary school performance and meet any specific subject prerequisites. English language proficiency is also required.

Below is the table of requirements with their details:

Requirement	Details
Academic Qualification	Completion of secondary school (Class 12)
Minimum GPA	Equivalent to at least 3.0 on a 4.3 scale (~69.7%)
Subject Prerequisites	May apply (e.g., Mathematics for Engineering, portfolio for Design/Arts)
Additional Requirements	Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)

What is the eligibility for postgraduate programs?

For postgraduate programs, applicants need a recognized bachelor’s degree with a solid academic record. Some programs may also require tests, interviews, or professional experience.

Below is the table of requirements with their details:

Requirement	Details
Academic Qualification	Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
Minimum GPA	B average (~70%) or equivalent
Program-Specific Requirements	May include standardized test scores (e.g., GMAT, GRE), interviews, or relevant work experience
Additional Requirements	Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)

Still stressed about the admission process? Don’t worry! Book a 1:1 free counselling session to clear all your doubts with upGrad’s expert counselors today!

When Can I Apply to Concordia University for 2025/26?

You can apply at Concordia three times in a year as it offers Fall, Winter, and sometimes Summer intakes. Fall is the most popular among international applicants due to optimal visa pacing and campus access.

Below is an overview of admission intakes and deadlines: 

Intake	Application Opens	Application Deadline	Notes
Fall (September)	October 1, 2025	March 1, 2026 (International: February 1, 2026)	Primary intake; most programs available
Winter (January)	Varies by program	November 1, 2025 (International: August 1, 2025)	Fewer programs than Fall
Summer (May)	Varies (limited)	Not applicable for most degree programs	Mostly special or continuing courses

What English Language Test Scores Do I Need for Concordia University?

International students whose first language is not English must take help through approved language tests. Concordia accepts a range of tests, including TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, and Duolingo. Minimum score requirements may vary slightly by program, but meeting these is essential for admission consideration.

 

Below is a table of the minimum English language test scores required:

Test	Minimum Score
TOEFL iBT	90 overall, minimum 34 combined in speaking & writing
IELTS Academic	6.5 overall, no band below 6.0
PTE Academic	61 overall, minimum 46 in speaking & writing
Duolingo English Test	120 overall, no sub-score below 90
CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Test)	70 overall, minimum 60 in each component

How Can I Apply to Concordia University as an International Student?

International students must apply online through Concordia’s admissions system. The process involves submitting academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and meeting all visa and financial requirements. Below are the steps for undergraduate and master’s program applications.

What is the application process for Concordia University?

Applying for Concordia University using the university’s online admissions portal, ensuring all required documents are submitted, and meeting the deadlines for your chosen intake. It involves carefully reviewing program-specific requirements and submitting a comprehensive application through the university’s online portal.

Below are the details of the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Explore Programs and Understand Requirements- Start by researching Concordia University’s postgraduate offerings and carefully review the specific entry criteria, including academic qualifications and English proficiency standards.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Documentation- Collect all relevant documents such as:

• Official transcripts from your previous studies
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
• Updated CV or resume
• A well-crafted statement of purpose
• Letters of recommendation (if required)
• Valid passport copy

Step 3: Register and Initiate Your Application- Create an account on Concordia’s online application system and provide accurate personal and educational details.

Step 4: Upload Your Supporting Documents- Submit all required documents electronically in accordance with the program’s instructions.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee- Complete the payment of the non-refundable application fee through the portal.

Step 6: Finalize and Submit Your Application- Double-check your application for accuracy and completeness, then submit it ahead of the deadline.

Step 7: Monitor Your Application Progress- Keep track of your application status using the university’s online portal to stay updated on any requests or decisions.

Step 8: Receive Your Admission Outcome- You will be informed of the admission decision via email or through the application system once your application has been reviewed.

Step 9: Confirm Your Offer and Apply for Study Permit- If admitted, accept your offer promptly and use the official Confirmation of Acceptance to begin your Canadian study permit application.

What is the Application Fee for International Students?

Concordia University charges an application fee of CAD 100 for both undergraduate and postgraduate applicants. This fee must be paid online at the time of submitting your application, using a credit card or other accepted payment method. The application fee is non-refundable, which means you will not get it back if you withdraw your application, are not accepted, or choose not to attend.

The CAD 100 is approximately ₹6,200 INR (based on an exchange rate of 1 CAD ≈ ₹62), though the exact INR amount will vary depending on currency fluctuations and bank charges.

What Documents Do I Need for Concordia University Admissions?

Organizing your documents in advance helps avoid delays and ensures your application is processed smoothly. For international students, certified translations may be needed if documents are not in English or French. Below are the typical document requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate applications.

What documents are required for undergraduate admissions?

Undergraduate applicants should prepare academic, identity, and language test documents early. Some competitive programs may also require extra submissions such as portfolios or audition videos.

Below is the list of required documents:

Document	Details
Academic Transcripts	Official, translated and certified if not in English/French
Proof of Identity	Valid passport copy
English Proficiency Test Scores	TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo (as per requirements)
Program-Specific Materials (if any)	Portfolios, audition videos, or other prerequisites

What documents are required for postgraduate admissions?

Postgraduate applicants must provide proof of previous degrees, language proficiency, and additional materials depending on program requirements. Research-focused programs may also require a proposal.

Below is the list of required documents:

Document	Details
Degree Certificate & Transcripts	From recognized undergraduate institution
English Proficiency Test Scores	TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo (as per requirements)
References	Typically two academic or professional referees
CV / Resume	Updated and relevant to program applied for
Statement of Purpose (if required)	Explains academic and career goals
Program-Specific Materials	Research proposal (for MPhil/PhD) or other relevant documents

Is an SOP or personal statement mandatory? 

Yes, Statement of Purpose (SOP) or personal statement is often mandatory for postgraduate (PG) applications at Concordia University and may also be required for certain competitive undergraduate (UG) programs, such as Fine Arts, Design, or highly selective business majors.

For postgraduate programs, the SOP is a core evaluation component. It allows admissions committees to assess:

• Your academic and career goals
• How your background and experiences align with the chosen program
• Your motivation for studying at Concordia
• Your potential to contribute to the academic community

For undergraduate programs, a personal statement is less common but may be requested in cases where:

• The program has limited seats and high competition
• The field demands creativity or personal vision (e.g., Arts, Film, Design)
• The admissions team needs more context about your academic history

Tips for writing an SOP/personal statement

1. Be specific – Mention courses, professors, facilities, or research at Concordia that interest you.
2. Show fit – Explain how your goals align with the program’s strengths.
3. Highlight relevant achievements – Academic, research, professional, or extracurricular.
4. Keep it concise yet personal – 500–1,000 words is common for PG programs.

How Competitive Is Admission to Concordia University?

Concordia University’s admission competitiveness varies significantly depending on the program, applicant pool, and intake season. While Concordia is considered moderately selective compared to Canada’s most competitive universities, top-tier programs can have strict entry requirements and limited seats.

A strong academic record, relevant extracurricular achievements, and submitting your application well before the deadline can meaningfully improve your chances.

What is the acceptance rate for international students in 2025? 

Concordia does not publish an official, program-wide acceptance rate for international students. However, based on unofficial estimates and past trends, general entry-level programs may admit between 50–65% of applicants, whereas competitive or capacity-restricted programs can have much lower acceptance rates.

Several factors influence your chances:

• Program Popularity – The more applicants a program attracts, the higher the competition.
• Academic Thresholds – Many competitive programs have higher GPA or percentage cut-offs.
• Document Quality – Strong SOPs, reference letters, and portfolios (if applicable) can tip the scales.
• Timing – Applying early can give you an edge, especially in rolling admissions programs.

Which programs are the hardest to get into? 

While Concordia offers over 400 programs, some consistently stand out as the hardest to get into due to demand and career outcomes

Below is a table of some of Concordia's most competitive programs and the reasons for their high demand:

Program / Faculty	Reason for High Competitiveness
Computer Science & Software Engineering	High demand from domestic and international students due to excellent job prospects in Canada’s tech industry.
Mechanical, Electrical, and Civil Engineering	Competitive due to accreditation by Engineers Canada and strong industry partnerships.
MBA (Investment Management) – John Molson School of Business	The only MBA in the world fully aligned with the CFA program curriculum, attracting top finance candidates globally.
Design, Film Production, and Fine Arts	Limited cohort sizes and portfolio requirements make these programs highly selective.
Psychology & Communication Studies	Popular due to strong research opportunities and interdisciplinary academic options.

How Much Does It Cost to Study at Concordia University?

Studying at Concordia University involves two major financial considerations: tuition fees and cost of living in Montreal. While tuition varies by program and level of study, living expenses are relatively affordable compared to other major Canadian cities. Planning your budget in advance helps avoid financial stress once your studies begin.

What is the tuition fee for undergraduate programs?

Undergraduate tuition at Concordia varies depending on the faculty, program specialization, and total course load. Most full-time international students pay a flat annual rate, which can be significantly higher for programs with specialized facilities or lab work.

Below is the table of tuition fee given:

Program / Faculty	Approx. Annual Tuition (CAD)	Approx. Annual Tuition (INR)
Arts & Science, Fine Arts	CAD 19,000 – 24,000	₹11.59 L – ₹14.64 L
Engineering & Computer Science	CAD 22,000 – 28,000	₹13.42 L – ₹17.08 L
John Molson School of Business (BComm etc.)	CAD 23,000 – 30,000	₹14.03 L – ₹18.30 L

Note: The value given in the above table may change within the time as per the currency and universities policies. 

What is the tuition fee for master’s programs? 

Graduate tuition is typically charged per credit, which means total costs vary based on the number of credits required to complete your program. Programs in engineering, business, and design often require higher tuition due to additional resources.

Below is the table of tuition fee given:

Program / Faculty	Approx. Annual Tuition (CAD)	Approx. Annual Tuition (INR)
Arts & Science (thesis-based Master's)	CAD 33,704	₹20.56 L
Engineering & Computer Science (Master's)	CAD 33,834	₹20.64 L
Business (Master's)	CAD 42,335	₹25.82 L
MBA – John Molson (Investment Management) – Total	CAD 68,850 (total)	₹42.00 L (total)

Note: The value given in the above table may change within the time as per the currency and universities policies. 

How much is the average cost of living in Montreal?

Your living expenses will depend on your lifestyle, housing choice, and spending habits. Montreal offers student-friendly accommodation, affordable public transport, and a relatively low cost of food compared to other Canadian cities.

Below is the table of monthly expenses for living in montreal:

Expense Category	Estimated Annual Cost (CAD)	Estimated Annual Cost (INR approx.)*
Housing	CAD 7,000 – 10,000	₹4.3 – 6.15 lakh
Food & Groceries	CAD 3,500 – 4,500	₹2.15 – 2.76 lakh
Transport	CAD 1,000 – 1,200	₹61,500 – 73,800
Miscellaneous & Personal	CAD 3,500 – 4,300	₹2.15 – 2.64 lakh

What Scholarships Can International Students Get at Concordia University?

Concordia University provides a variety of scholarships for both undergraduate and postgraduate students to make studying in Canada more affordable. These awards can be based on academic excellence, financial need, or specific program achievements. 

Many scholarships are automatically considered upon admission, while others require a separate application.

What scholarships are available for undergraduates?

International undergraduates can benefit from awards that recognize high school academic performance, leadership, and community involvement. Some scholarships are competitive and renewable for multiple years, significantly reducing tuition costs.

Here is the list of scholarships is given below:

Scholarship Name	Eligibility	Benefits
Concordia Presidential Scholarship	Exceptional academic record + leadership qualities	Covers tuition & fees, books, and living costs for up to 4 years
Concordia International Tuition Award of Excellence	Top academic performance in high school	Reduces tuition to the rate paid by Quebec residents
Entrance Scholarships (Automatic)	Based on high school grades (80%+)	CAD 2,000 – CAD 10,000 (₹1.22 L – ₹6.10 L) one-time or renewable
Faculty-specific Entrance Awards	Outstanding grades in specific faculties (e.g., Engineering, Business)	CAD 1,000 – CAD 5,000 (₹61K – ₹3.05 L)

What scholarships are available for postgraduates? 

Graduate students at Concordia can access scholarships for research excellence, departmental achievements, and professional leadership. Funding may come in the form of tuition waivers, living stipends, or research grants.

Here is the list of scholarships is given below:

Scholarship Name	Eligibility	Benefits
Concordia Merit Scholarship	High GPA and research potential	CAD 10,000 (₹6.10 L) per year
Concordia Graduate Fellowships	Outstanding academic performance in graduate programs	CAD 7,000 – CAD 15,000 (₹4.27 L – ₹9.15 L)
Teaching Assistantships (TA)	Enrolled graduate students with teaching skills	Monthly stipend + partial tuition waiver
Concordia Doctoral Graduate Fellowship	Doctoral students with proven research excellence	CAD 14,000/year (₹8.54 L) for up to 4 years
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (External)	Exceptional doctoral students with leadership and research impact	CAD 50,000/year (₹30.50 L) for 3 years

Does Concordia University Offer Internships, Co-ops, and Placements?

Concordia University offers international students practical learning opportunities through co-op placements, internships, and industry projects. These experiences help students gain real-world skills, network with employers, and increase job readiness before graduation

What co-op programs are available for international students?

Concordia’s co-op programs integrate academic study with paid work experience, typically alternating between classroom terms and work terms. Opportunities are available in fields like Engineering, Business, Computer Science, and Creative Arts, with placements lasting 4–8 months.

Here are some popular internships offered by Concordia University:

Program / Faculty	Type	Duration
Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical)	Co-op	4–8 months per work term
Bachelor of Computer Science (BCompSc)	Co-op	4 months to 1 year (multiple terms possible)
John Molson School of Business (BComm, MBA)	Internship / Co-op	4–6 months
Bachelor of Fine Arts (Design & Computation Arts)	Internship	4–6 months
MSc in Computer Science / Information Systems	Internship	4–8 months

Which companies hire Concordia graduates?

Concordia graduates are sought after by global corporations, innovative start-ups, and Montreal’s leading companies. Employers range from tech giants to financial institutions and creative design firms.

Industry	Top Recruiters
Technology	Microsoft, IBM, Ubisoft, CGI, Ericsson
Engineering	Bombardier, SNC-Lavalin, CAE Inc., WSP Global
Business & Finance	Deloitte, KPMG, PwC, EY, National Bank of Canada
Creative & Design	Moment Factory, Sid Lee, Behaviour Interactive
Start-ups	Hopper, Lightspeed Commerce, Breather

What is the graduate employment rate?

Concordia University has a strong track record of employability for its graduates. Across many faculties, more than 80% of students secure employment within six months of graduation, a figure that is competitive with top Canadian universities. This high placement rate is largely due to:

• Industry-connected programs such as co-ops, internships, and applied research projects.
• Montreal’s thriving job market in sectors like technology, aerospace, engineering, finance, and creative industries.
• Strong employer partnerships with global corporations and local innovators.

Employment rates vary by program. Computer Science, Engineering, and Business graduates typically see 85-90% employment soon after graduation. Creative arts or research programs may have longer transition periods for portfolio building or further study.

What Are the Visa requirements to study in Canada?

To study in Canada, international students must obtain a valid study permit. This requires proof of admission, sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses, and compliance with health and security checks. Meeting these requirements ensures a smooth entry into Canada for academic purposes.

What is the visa process after getting an offer from Concordia?

After receiving your offer from Concordia, you’ll get a Letter of Acceptance, which is needed to apply for a Canadian study permit through IRCC. Submit your application online, along with required documents like proof of funds and a valid passport.

Step	Description	Key Documents
1. Receive Offer & LOA	Concordia sends your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) after admission.	- LOA from Concordia
2. Gather Documents	Collect all papers for the study permit.	- Valid passport  - LOA  - Proof of funds  - Photos  - SOP (if needed)  - Medical exam (if required)
3. Apply Online via IRCC	Submit the application on IRCC’s site.	- All above docs scanned  - Fee payment (CAD 150 ≈ INR 9,000)
4. Give Biometrics	Provide fingerprints and photos at VAC.	- Biometric letter  - Appointment receipt
5. Wait for Decision	Processing takes 3–6 weeks.	- Track online
6. Get Approval	Receive Port of Entry Letter for travel.	- POE Letter  - Visa in passport
7. Arrive in Canada	Show documents at the border to get a permit.	- POE Letter  - LOA  - Proof of funds

How long does it take to get a Canadian study permit?

If you’re applying for a Canadian study permit after receiving an offer from Concordia University, you can generally expect the process to take between 3 to 6 weeks. However, this is only an average actual time that can be shorter or longer depending on where you’re applying from, the time of year, and how quickly you provide the required documents.

For example, peak admission seasons (like May- August) often see higher application volumes, which may slow down processing. Your application can also be delayed if documents are incomplete, biometrics are submitted late, or additional background/security checks are required.

To avoid any last-minute stress, it’s strongly recommended to apply as soon as you receive your Letter of Acceptance from Concordia. Early applications give you enough time to account for unexpected delays and ensure you arrive in Canada before your program begins.

What Is Student Life Like at Concordia University?

Student life at Concordia University is dynamic and inclusive, providing students with numerous opportunities to engage beyond academics. The university’s diverse clubs and activities cater to a wide range of interests, from cultural and social groups to academic and professional organizations. 

Being in Montreal, students also enjoy the city’s rich cultural scene, festivals, and active community, making campus life both exciting and enriching.

What clubs and activities are available?

Concordia University offers a wide range of clubs and activities catering to diverse interests, helping students connect, grow, and thrive both socially and professionally. These clubs foster cultural exchange, academic support, physical wellness, creativity, and career development.

Below are some examples of clubs and activities:

Type of Club/Activity	Examples	Purpose
Multicultural Clubs	International Students’ Association, African Students’ Association	Celebrate cultural diversity, foster community
Academic Clubs	Engineering Society, Business Students Association	Support academic growth, networking
Sports & Recreation	Intramural Sports, Fitness Classes	Promote physical health, team spirit
Arts & Creative Clubs	Drama Club, Photography Club	Encourage artistic expression and creativity
Professional & Career Groups	Marketing Club, Finance Society	Develop professional skills, career networking